Control Your Blood Sugar to Prevent Complications

Did you know that even if you don’t have diabetes you can have uncontrolled blood sugar that may lead to serious health complications? And for those with diabetes, the stakes are even higher.

With two convenient practice locations in Cleveland and Livingston, Texas, the experienced medical team at Calvary Medical Clinic offers preventive care and management for many chronic conditions, such as diabetes. With Diabetes Awareness Month just around the corner, the physicians at Calvary Medical Clinic offer the following guidelines to help patients reverse uncontrolled blood sugar and prevent diabetes.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF UNCONTROLLED BLOOD SUGAR?

Uncontrolled blood sugar means the level of sugar in your bloodstream is either too high or too low. Each comes with its own set of symptoms. These spikes and dips can make you feel cranky and tired, but they can also have more serious health effects, including coma. As such, it’s important to learn to recognize the symptoms.

SYMPTOMS OF HIGH BLOOD SUGAR:

Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Dry mouth
Rapid heartbeat
Nausea and/or vomiting
Fatigue
“Fruity” breath

SYMPTOMS OF LOW BLOOD SUGAR:

Anxiety or nervousness
Shakiness
Hunger
Nausea
Dizziness
Confusion
Weakness
Fatigue
Sweating
Trouble speaking

WHAT COMPLICATIONS ACCOMPANY UNCONTROLLED BLOOD SUGAR?

Uncontrolled blood sugar puts you at risk for many serious complications. These complications include but are not limited to:

Heart disease and stroke
Blindness and other sight-related issues
Kidney disease
Amputation
Gum disease
Kidney disease
Depression
Erectile dysfunction (ED)

Fortunately, modern medicine and good habits can go a long way toward preventing complications and other health issues.

WHAT STEPS CAN I TAKE TO CONTROL MY BLOOD SUGAR?

First, you need to know your healthy blood sugar range. When you visit Dr. Furman, he evaluates your health history and unique situation to provide your target range.

If you have diabetes, you’ll need to monitor your blood sugar as directed by Dr. Furman. You should also take any medications prescribed to help keep it under control.

In addition, all patients should follow these steps to help keep blood sugar under control and minimize the risk of complications:

1. DON’T SMOKE

Smoking increases your risk of many complications, including reduced blood flow to the legs and feet, heart disease, nerve damage, kidney disease, and premature death.

2. EAT A HEALTHY DIET AND GET ACTIVE

Eating a well-balanced diet centered on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins, like legumes, beans, and tofu, is the best way to eat for controlling your blood sugar as well as for your overall health. You’ll also want to drink water and avoid sugary drinks. And adding in exercise will help you control your blood sugar with less medication.

3. KEEP BLOOD PRESSURE AND CHOLESTEROL IN CHECK

Diabetes can damage your blood vessels. High blood pressure also damages blood vessels, and high cholesterol can accelerate the damage. Eating a low-cholesterol diet and engaging in moderate exercise can help keep them in check. Dr. Furman may also recommend medication if required.

4. AVOID ALCOHOL

Alcohol can have a big impact on your blood sugar, making it go up or down depending on how much you drink and what you eat, if anything, at the same time. Avoiding alcohol is best, but if you choose to drink, be sure to do so in moderation only — one drink per day for all women and men over 65, and two drinks per day for men under 65.

5. VISIT YOUR DOCTOR REGULARLY

Regular medical exams help catch problems before they start, ensuring you stay as healthy as possible. As a diabetes specialist, Dr. Furman checks your blood glucose and A1C, discusses your health goals, and helps make changes to your treatment plan if necessary. He’ll also provide you with routine care to prevent other health issues.

READY TO TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR BLOOD SUGAR?

The complications from uncontrolled blood sugar occur over time. The sooner you work to take back control and stay in your target range, the less likely you are to experience complications.

Don’t wait to control your blood sugar! Contact Calvary Medical Clinic by calling us at (832) 995-5200.